Michael Sam celebrates draft, LGBT history in La Jolla

Missouri defensive end Michael Sam made history Saturday, becoming the first openly gay player to be drafted into the National Football League when the St. Louis Rams selected him as the 249th overall pick in the seventh round. The video of his emotional response went viral almost immediately.

What many didn't realize is that Sam was here when he was drafted. He was in La Jolla with friends, family and agents when he was drafted into the NFL — and history.

Play it, Sam.

In La Jolla.

Michael Sam's agent said today that Sam will watch the draft this weekend with his agents in La Jolla, Calif.

The New York Times put his whereabouts into perspective Wednesday at the bottom of a story headlined: "Sam and League Share Uncomfortable Scrutiny."

FILE - In this Nov. 20, 2013, file photo, Missouri defensive lineman Michael Sam takes up his position during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Texas A&M in Columbia, Mo. With openly gay player Michael Sam about to be drafted into the NFL, several members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including coach Marv Levy, linebacker Harry Carson and cornerback Michael Haynes, believe he will be readily accepted into the league and won't endure any discrimination. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)
The Associated Press

FILE - In this Nov. 20, 2013, file photo, Missouri defensive lineman Michael Sam takes up his position during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Texas A&M in Columbia, Mo. With openly gay player Michael Sam about to be drafted into the NFL, several members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including coach Marv Levy, linebacker Harry Carson and cornerback Michael Haynes, believe he will be readily accepted into the league and won't endure any discrimination. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)

The Times reported: "But instead of remaining in New York and in the draft spotlight that is customary for many prominent prospects, he will watch the draft at a private home in the San Diego area with his family, friends and agents."

Saturday, the world watched with him as video of the moment went viral. This clip shows him crying with joy as an announcer explains, "This is the moment where Michael Sam got the news that he was going to be a member of the St. Louis Rams. There you see him on the phone, and there you see the raw emotion. We’ve seen this so many times over and over again for so many players."

But, as many noted and applauded, never for an openly gay player.

On the video, listeners can hear Sam say, "Yes, sir," and then again, "Yes, sir,” and finally, "Thank you."

With that, Sam hung up the phone and kissed and hugged his boyfriend as those around him burst into applause.